Iran, US engage in indirect nuclear talks in Oman

Iran and the United States have commenced indirect negotiations aimed at addressing the nuclear issue and lifting sanctions, with discussions taking place in Muscat, Oman, on April 12.

This marks the first round of talks between the two nations in years, held through Omani intermediaries, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, emphasized that the primary goal of these indirect negotiations is to secure Iran's national interests. "Securing our national interests is the aim of indirect negotiations," Baghaei stated during a press briefing on the sidelines of the talks. He added that Iran is committed to giving diplomacy "a real and honest opportunity" to advance the nuclear issue and, more importantly, to facilitate the lifting of sanctions imposed on the country.

Baghaei also pointed out that Iran has consistently demonstrated its commitment to diplomacy, particularly over the past two decades, in addressing the nuclear issue. "Over the past few decades, Iran has proven its commitment to diplomacy in action," he said, underscoring the country’s long-standing diplomatic efforts.

The talks in Muscat serve as a demonstration of Iran’s determination to secure its national interests through diplomatic means, according to Baghaei. He described the negotiations as both an opportunity and a test for the United States to show its seriousness and intentions regarding the future of the nuclear agreement.

Negotiations are being conducted indirectly, with Iranian and U.S. negotiators stationed in separate rooms and exchanging messages via Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, who is acting as an intermediary. The Iranian delegation is being led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, while the U.S. negotiator is Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy.

Upon his arrival in Muscat, Araqchi met with Al Busaidi to discuss Iran’s position, after which the Omani intermediary met with Witkoff to relay the messages. The talks are seen as a crucial step toward resolving long-standing issues between Iran and the United States, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear program and the sanctions imposed on the country.

By Vugar Khalilov